Lebanon Prime Minister Nawaf Salam rejected proposals to transfer Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. He described the idea as “imaginary” and said it has no place in serious political discussions.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly pushed for relocating Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also suggested that Palestinians establish a state in Saudi Arabia instead of their homeland. Salam dismissed these ideas as both “outrageous” and unacceptable.
“Not only is the idea of transferring the people of Gaza to Egypt and Jordan a visionary issue, but transferring them to the West Bank is outrageous and unacceptable – morally, politically, and legally,” he told Lebanese state television.
Call for Arab Unity Against Forced Displacement
Salam urged Arab nations to stand together against efforts to remove Palestinians from their land. He called for greater solidarity to block any attempts at forced displacement.
“The only solution for the Palestinian issue is justice, not removal,” Salam said. He emphasized that any move to push Palestinians out of Gaza would violate international law and deepen regional instability.
The Lebanese leader’s comments come amid a fragile ceasefire in Gaza that took effect on January 19. The truce has temporarily halted Israel’s military offensive, which has left more than 48,200 Palestinians dead. The war has also devastated the enclave, leaving much of Gaza in ruins.
Plans to Visit Syria for Diplomatic Talks
Salam announced plans to visit Syria “soon” to discuss key bilateral issues. He did not specify an exact date but confirmed that border demarcation and the status of Syrian refugees in Lebanon will be major topics.
Lebanon hosts a large number of displaced Syrians who fled the civil war. The issue has become a major political and economic challenge for Beirut. Salam aims to find solutions that serve both Lebanese and Syrian interests.
Syria’s Political Shift and New Leadership
Syria recently experienced a major political transition. President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia on December 8, ending decades of Baath Party rule. The next day, Ahmed Al-Sharaa took over as Syria’s new leader. He appointed Mohammed Al-Bashir as prime minister to oversee the country’s transitional period.
Salam’s upcoming visit to Damascus marks the first official Lebanese contact with the new Syrian administration. Lebanon and Syria have a complex history, shaped by political tensions and economic ties. Salam’s talks with Syrian officials could set the tone for future cooperation.
Lebanon’s Position on Regional Conflicts
Lebanon has maintained a delicate stance on regional conflicts. The country opposes forced displacement of Palestinians while seeking stability in its relationship with Syria. Salam’s leadership reflects a focus on diplomacy and regional engagement.
As Lebanon navigates economic and political challenges, its foreign policy decisions will shape its role in the region. Salam’s strong stance against Palestinian displacement and his outreach to Syria signal a commitment to sovereignty and regional stability.
Related Stories:
Arab States Reject Trump’s Call to Relocate Palestinians from Gaza
Egypt, Jordan leaders reject Trump’s suggestion to take in Palestinians
Trump Calls neighbours to take in Palestinians to ‘clean out’ Gaza
